The person responsible for her murder is Russian mercenary and spy Leonid Arkadin. And what makes Arkadin particularly dangerous is that, like Bourne, he was originally trained by Treadstone, an unsanctioned, covert group that churned out superspies who were also experts in detection and killing. What will happen if and when two equally skilled and trained operatives like Arkadin and Bourne finally come face to face with each other? The suspense of that eventual meeting keeps the reader in keen anticipation until nearly the last chapter of this fast-paced and exciting novel.
Born David Webb, the operative known as Jason Bourne has utilised a number of different legends. Here, he is known by many as Adam Stone, who allegedly was also a professor at Oxford. He uses this identity to befriend Chrissie, Tracy’s sister. By indicating that he was present when she was killed and promising to avenge her death, Chrissie has no choice but to aid Bourne in uncovering the secrets behind the strangely engraved ring that he carries. After meeting with another Oxford professor who is a friend of Chrissie’s, Bourne learns about the cryptic background of this mysterious ring. Once decoded, its message points towards an ominous and secret group known as Severus Domna, whose name is a blend of Old Persian and Latin and whose members are still active and very dangerous.
Arkadin and members of other covert groups are also in search of this item. To further confuse matters, rumours of Treadstone being resurrected by American sleeper agent Frederick Willard makes this a race to the death as his group is also pursuing the laptop as well.
Can Bourne avenge Tracy Atherton, stop Leonid Arkadin, stay one step ahead of the new Treadstone and CI, and recover the missing laptop? Suffice it to say that all is wrapped up by the end of the novel, and the last few chapters will have readers gasping for breath. Absolutely gripping and thrilling.